Cosmetic Rosacea Treatments

09 Aug Cosmetic Rosacea Treatments

Rosacea is a medical condition, but many sufferers are most interested in treating it for cosmetic reasons. Refined Dermatology specializes in both the medical and esthetic side of treatments for this stubborn, chronic inflammatory skin condition. The technical term for inflamed blood vessels is vascular rosacea, which is shortened into a much lovelier sounding condition than how it presents.

Symptoms of Rosacea

Symptoms of rosacea tend to get worse with each breakout. Rosacea usually begins when tiny blood vessels in the cheeks and nose swell to the point of visibility. This is called telangiectasia and gives these areas a red glow. However, sometimes they look like red spider webs. It depends on your natural blood vessel layout and the degree of spreading. Rosacea can also present as red blotches.

Rosacea might look like an allergy, eczema, or acne, but requires its own unique treatment. If rosacea isn’t treated, it can progressively get worse. It’s most common in those with fair skin, and it’s estimated that 1 in 20 Americans have it. The complete causes of rosacea aren’t fully understood. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for rosacea, but there are many ways to treat the symptoms.

Triggers of Rosacea

In some cases, certain foods can trigger rosacea, especially dairy or spicy foods. Determining your triggers is one of the first steps in preventing rosacea breakouts. Lifestyle changes along with medications (topical and oral) can help keep rosacea in check. Common medications include topical ointments to reduce redness and inflammation. Antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, or azelaic acid may also be prescribed for a topical treatment.

Oral medications include antibiotics to clear up any infections and Accutane if less aggressive medications don’t work. There’s also Blephamide, an eye steroid drop, which can be helpful for those with ocular rosacea.

However, one of the most effective treatments that require no drugs is laser therapy. Pulsed light can effectively shrink inflamed blood vessels. There is no need for anesthesia and zero down time. If you have rosacea, call Refined Dermatology at 408-384-3845 and begin the pathway to better-looking skin.